It was thought that Eintracht Frankfurt manager Armin Veh was the top choice but with the German gaffer signing a new deal with Die Adler, Moyes has shot to the top of Schalke’s wish list. The German club are searching for a noteworthy European manager after Jens Keller has failed to impress since replacing Huub Stevens last December.

In addition to Moyes it is believed that Roberto Di Matteo and Celtic’s Neil Lennon could also be in line for the appointment. Di Matteo has been out of work since being sacked by Chelsea earlier this season and after a stunning run in the Champions League, reports have emerged that Lennon may be ready to quit Parkhead for a new challenge.

Moyes has repeatedly refused to re-sign at Everton until the season comes to a close. After initially claiming had he wanted to wait to see how the club performs in the cups and the league, reserve team manager Alan Stubbs recently noted that Moyes’ hesitation was due to budgetary concerns. Regardless of his motive, the indecision has Everton fans sweating.

Adding to their worries is Moyes’ admitted admiration for the Bundesliga. In a December 2012 interview with France Football he said, “I always had the hope of being a coach abroad. If I had the choice, I would probably go to Germany, in part because of the mentality, which is similar to mine. I’m also fascinated by what happens in German football.”

The best way to ensure Moyes stays, of course, is for Everton to finish the season in a strong run of form so that they qualify for Europe. A Champions League spot would almost certainly give the Scot reason to re-sign at Goodison. Qualifying for the Europa League, however, might not be enough.

If Moyes were to leave Everton it would end an 11 year stint at the club. Likely replacements for Moyes include Wigan’s Roberto Martinez, ex Fulham manager Mark Hughes, QPR’s Harry Redknapp and Molde’s Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.